Underrun protection device and vehicle equipped with such an underrun protection device

Abstract

An underride protection device comprising: - an underride protection bar (6); - two brackets (7), each having a front end (702) and a rear end (703) to which the underride protection bar (6) is attached; and - two fastening and interface systems (8). Each interface and fastening system (8) comprises an inner plate (801) configured to be attached to the vehicle chassis, and an outer plate (800) assembled to the inner plate (801) and configured to be attached to the front end (702) of one of the respective brackets (7). The outer plate (800) includes a positioning element, and the inner plate (801) includes a complementary positioning element configured to cooperate with the positioning element of the respective outer plate (800) by complementary shape, so as to position the respective bracket (7) in at least one predetermined direction from among a finite number of predetermined directions. Abbreviated figure: Figure 5

Description

Title of the invention: Underrun protection device and vehicle equipped with such an underrun protection device Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an underrun protection device, in particular for a vehicle of the truck or heavy goods vehicle type.

[0002] In particular, this type of vehicle has a rear overhanging section located at a higher level than the passenger compartments of so-called passenger vehicles, or more commonly known as automobiles. In accordance with certain road regulations, the underrun protection device includes an underrun protection bar positioned under the overhanging section at a certain height above the ground and at a certain distance from the rear of the vehicle on which the underrun protection device is mounted, so as to prevent the passenger compartment of an automobile from becoming embedded under said overhanging section of the truck or heavy goods vehicle.

[0003] The present invention further relates to such a vehicle of the truck or heavy goods vehicle type, equipped with such an anti-underrun device. State of the art

[0004] A vehicle is known from document FR 2 855 121, a portion of which extends in cantilever at a level higher than that of automobile passenger compartments, and an underrun protection device comprising two uprights intended to be fixed on either side of a vehicle chassis. The underrun protection device further comprises an underrun protection bar located at the rear of the vehicle under the cantilevered portion, and two brackets, each connecting the underrun protection bar to one of the uprights.

[0005] Each bracket of the underride guard comprises a flat profile for fixing to the vehicle's chassis and a horizontally projecting rib. The rib is welded to the flat profile. A front end edge of each bracket and a surface of the rib together form stop means that prevent each bracket from tilting downwards beyond a certain position, called the service position.

[0006] Thus, when the underrun protection device is fixed to the vehicle's chassis, each bracket extends at an angle of inclination relative to the horizontal and the underrun protection bar is thus positioned at a certain height from the ground and a certain distance from the rear of the vehicle, under the overhanging portion. Description of the invention

[0007] The present invention aims to provide an anti-underrun device of a similar kind, the assembly of which in the service position is facilitated.

[0008] To this end, it proposes, according to a first aspect, an anti-underrun device comprising:

[0009] - a transverse underride guard;

[0010] - two longitudinal brackets, each having a front end and an end rear to which the underride guard is attached; and

[0011] - two fastening and interface systems, each configured to be fixed by a part on the front end of one of the respective consoles and on the other hand on a vehicle chassis.

[0012] According to the invention, each interface and fastening system comprises an inner plate configured to be fixed directly or indirectly to the chassis of the vehicle, and an outer plate assembled to the inner plate and configured to be fixed to the front end of one of the respective consoles, the outer plate includes a positioning element, the inner plate includes a complementary positioning element configured to cooperate with the positioning element of the respective outer plate by complementary shape, so as to position the respective console in at least one predetermined direction among a finite number of predetermined directions.

[0013] Thanks to the complementary shape of the positioning elements and complementary positioning elements of the external and internal plates, it is possible to precisely orient the brackets of the underride guard along at least one predetermined direction. This orientation allows for angular positioning of the brackets, which can thus extend at least one predetermined angle of inclination relative to the horizontal.

[0014] Depending on the type of vehicle to be equipped with an underride guard and therefore the desired height of the underride guard, the inner and outer plates can be pre-shaped, for example by machining, molding, or forging. In this way, during assembly, the brackets always have the same angular positioning or the same angular positions if several orientation directions of the brackets are permitted by the shape of the positioning elements and complementary positioning elements.

[0015] The angle of inclination of the brackets here depends on the complementary shape of the positioning elements and complementary positioning elements, and not on the operator installing the underride guard on the vehicle. In other words, the complementary shape allows for precise and reproducible angular positioning of the brackets during the installation of the underride guard on the vehicle.

[0016] The number of predetermined directions depends on the shape of the positioning elements and complementary positioning elements of the inner and outer plates. It is advantageous to allow several orientation directions for the brackets in order to accommodate a greater number of different vehicles. In some applications, however, a single orientation direction for the brackets may suffice, thus simplifying the shaping of the inner and outer plates.

[0017] Particularly simple, convenient and economical preferred features of the anti-underrun device according to the invention are presented below.

[0018] One of the external plate positioning element and the complementary internal plate positioning element comprises a first toothing, and the other of the external plate positioning element and the complementary internal plate positioning element comprises a second toothing cooperating with the first toothing.

[0019] The toothed shape of the positioning element and the complementary positioning element allows the brackets to be positioned angularly with particular precision.

[0020] Furthermore, depending on the desired angular orientation of the brackets, it is possible to dimension the first and second teeth appropriately. In particular, it is possible to choose the size and number of teeth of the first and second teeth to allow the brackets to be oriented in different predetermined directions.

[0021] The multiplicity of the number of teeth in the first and second teeth allows in particular a finer selection of the position of the brackets among a plurality of predetermined directions.

[0022] Moreover, such a toothed mechanism allows the internal and external plates to be assembled very simply with each other.

[0023] Moreover, such a toothed mechanism has the advantage of providing good recovery and transmission of the forces exerted on the anti-embezzling bar and the brackets.

[0024] One of the external plate positioning element and the complementary internal plate positioning element may be a disc having the first toothing, the other of the external plate positioning element and the complementary internal plate positioning element may include an opening at least partially circular and having a contour at least partially formed by the second toothing.

[0025] The outer plate may include a flange from which the disc protrudes.

[0026] The inner plate may include at least one first fixing hole, the plate The external component may include at least one light extending over a predetermined length, and the anti-recess device may further include at least one assembly bolt passing through said at least one first fixing hole of the inner plate and said at least one light of the outer plate so as to fix the inner plate to the outer plate.

[0027] Thanks to the light extending over a predetermined length, it is possible to choose the position of the outer plate relative to the inner plate. The number of possible positions of the outer plate on the inner plate depends on the combination of the length of the light and the interaction of the positioning elements and complementary positioning elements.

[0028] The inner plate may include one or more first transmission holes; the underride protection device may further include one or more keys passing through the inner plate via the first transmission hole(s) and configured to bear at least substantially against the vehicle chassis. Such keys may facilitate the absorption of so-called shear forces.

[0029] Each fastening and interface system may include an interface piece which is configured to be fixed by a first face to the chassis of the vehicle and by a second face opposite to the first face to one of the respective internal plates.

[0030] The interface piece may include at least one second fixing hole located opposite said at least one first fixing hole of the inner plate, and at least one assembly bolt further passes through at least one second fixing hole of the interface piece.

[0031] The interface piece may include one or more second transmission ports located opposite the first transmission port(s) of the inner plate, and the key(s) further pass through the second transmission port(s) of the interface piece.

[0032] The interface piece may include one or more through holes for fixing the interface piece to the chassis by means of one or more fixing bolts, and at least one housing into which the through hole(s) open and which is provided to accommodate one or more screw heads forming the fixing bolt(s).

[0033] The interface piece may include a connecting plate and a fixing plate attached to the connecting plate, with the through hole(s) provided in the fixing plate, and with the connecting plate which includes at least one window provided opposite the through hole(s) and defining at least one housing.

[0034] Splitting the interface piece into a mounting plate and a connecting plate, which are then joined together, simplifies the manufacture of such a piece, firstly by drilling at least the through hole(s) and / or the second transmission hole(s) and / or at least one second mounting hole in the mounting plate and, secondly, by creating at least one counterbore in the connecting plate to form at least one window and thus at least one housing.

[0035] The fixing plate and the connecting plate can be welded to each other.

[0036] Each console may include a front section and a rear section hinged at the front section, the front section being further articulated by the front end of the respective console to one of the respective fixing and interface systems, and the rear section being further articulated by the rear end of the respective console to the underrun protection bar.

[0037] The brackets are movable between a service position in which the front and rear sections are aligned in line with each other, and a retracted position in which the front and rear sections are folded back on themselves at an acute angle to each other. Thus, the underride guard is movable between a lower position when the brackets are in the service position, and an upper position that is relatively higher than the lower position when the brackets are in the retracted position. In the lower position of the underride guard, the underride guard is said to be in the deployed configuration, while in the upper position of the underride guard, the underride guard is said to be in the retracted configuration.

[0038] It is in the deployed configuration of the underride guard that the underride guard prevents motor vehicles from becoming embedded under the vehicle equipped with this device. The retracted configuration of the underride guard is used to avoid interfering with operations such as lifting a tipper body that may be carried by the vehicle equipped with this device.

[0039] The underride guard may comprise several sections, including a central section located between two lateral sections and offset axially with respect to the lateral sections.

[0040] The invention also relates, according to a second aspect, to a vehicle comprising a so-called load-bearing chassis having at least two longitudinal members, an overhanging portion of the chassis, and an underrun protection device as described above. Each internal plate is configured to be fixed, directly or indirectly, to one of the respective longitudinal members of the chassis so that the underrun protection bar extends under the overhanging portion of the chassis. Brief description of the figures

[0041] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples:

[0042] - [Fig. 1] is a partial, side view of a vehicle equipped with equipment non-removable tipping skip, shown here in a flat position, and an anti- embedded according to the invention fixed on a vehicle chassis and shown in deployed configuration;

[0043] - [Fig.2] is a view similar to [Fig.1], but with the anti-underrun device in retracted configuration and the tipping skip in inclined position;

[0044] - [Fig. 3] is a view similar to that of [Fig. 1], except that it is a equipment with a removable tipper body rather than a non-removable one;

[0045] - [Fig.4] is a view similar to that of [Fig.2], with the tipper equipment removable tilting mechanism;

[0046] - [Fig. 5] is a partial perspective view showing the anti-device embedded in the deployed configuration and fixed to the vehicle chassis;

[0047] - [Fig.6] is similar to [Fig.5], but in side view;

[0048] - Fig. 7 is a partial perspective view showing the anti-device recessed in retracted configuration and fixed to the vehicle chassis;

[0049] - [Fig.8] is similar to [Fig.7], but in side view;

[0050] - [Fig. 9] is a partial perspective view of the underride protection device taken isolated, showing a fixing and interface system and partially a console of this anti-embedding device;

[0051] - [Fig. 10] is a view similar to that of [Fig. 9], but partially exploded;

[0052] - [Fig. 1 1] is also a view similar to that of [Fig. 9], but with the system of fixing and interface shown in exploded view;

[0053] - [Fig.12] is a view similar to [Fig.11], taken from a different angle of view;

[0054] - [Fig. 13] is an isolated perspective view of an external plate of the system fixing and interface;

[0055] - [Fig.14] is a view similar to [Fig.13], taken from a different angle;

[0056] - [Fig. 15] is an isolated perspective view of an internal plate of the system of fixing and interface;

[0057] - [Fig. 16] is an isolated perspective view of an interface part of the system of fastening and interface; and

[0058] - [Fig.17] is a view similar to [Fig.16], taken from a different angle. Detailed description

[0059] Figures 1 and 2 partially represent a vehicle 1 of the heavy goods vehicle or truck type.

[0060] The vehicle 1 comprises a carrier chassis 2 on which a tipping skip 3 is mounted. A portion 300 of the tipping skip, located at the rear of the vehicle 1, is cantilevered from the carrier chassis 2.

[0061] The vehicle 1 rests on the ground by wheels 4, one of which is visible in the figures.

[0062] The supporting chassis 2 comprises two longitudinal members 200 on which a false- is fixed chassis (not visible) belonging to the equipment. The figure being taken from the side, only one of the two longitudinal members 200 is visible.

[0063] Each longitudinal member 200 is, for example, a U-shaped profile.

[0064] The skip 3 is generally intended to receive and transport materials, by example of road surfacing materials.

[0065] The skip 3 is here a non-removable skip, i.e. configured to remain fixed to the vehicle 1.

[0066] The tipper body 3 is articulated on the subframe by means of an articulation device 303 located at the rear of the vehicle 1. The articulation device 303 includes in particular a transverse pivot axis 304. The tipper body can tilt backwards around the transverse pivot axis 304.

[0067] In particular, the tipping body can occupy a flat position (as in [Fig. 1]) and an inclined position (as in [Fig. 2]). The flat position corresponds to the position in which a bottom plate 301 of the tipping body 3 is parallel to a roadway on which the vehicle 1 rests. The inclined position corresponds to the position in which the bottom plate 301 of the tipping body 3 extends in a plane oblique to the roadway. The tipping body 3 has a maximum inclined position beyond which it cannot tip further backward.

[0068] The skip 3 tilts from the flat position to the inclined position in order to dump its contents from the rear.

[0069] The tilting of the skip 3 from the flat position to the inclined position, and vice versa, is carried out for example by means of a lifting arm formed for example by a cylinder (not shown in figures 1 and 2).

[0070] Vehicle 1 in Figures 1, 2 is equipped with an underride protection device 5.

[0071] The underrun protection device 5 is fixed to the carrier chassis 2 so as to extend under the overhanging portion 300 of the tipper body 3. As will be detailed later, the underrun protection device 5 is configured to be fixed to a lateral face 201 of each longitudinal member 200.

[0072] Figures 3 and 4 differ from Figures 1 and 2 only in the type of tipping skip 3. The skip 3 shown in Figures 3 and 4 is a removable skip.

[0073] A removable skip is defined as a skip that can be fixed to a vehicle or freely placed on other structures. The removable skip can be fixed to any vehicle equipped with a lifting arm 302 as shown in [Fig. 4]. The lifting arm 302 is here formed by a hydraulic cylinder.

[0074] Vehicle 1 in Figures 3, 4 is therefore also equipped with an underride protection device 5.

[0075] Such an underride protection device 5, more clearly visible in Figures 5 to 8, comprises a transverse underride protection bar 6, two longitudinal brackets 7 and two fastening and interface systems 8.

[0076] The underride guard 6 comprises a central section 600 and two lateral sections 601.

[0077] The lateral sections 601 extend on either side of the central section 600. The lateral sections 601 are axially offset with respect to the lateral sections 601. In other words, the lateral sections 601 are set back with respect to the central section 600.

[0078] The anti-underrun bar 6 is movable relative to the longitudinal members 200 between a lower position (figures 1, 3, 5, 6) and a higher position (figures 2, 4, 7, 8) relatively higher than the lower position.

[0079] The anti-underrun bar 6 moves from the lower position to the upper position, and vice versa, by a translational movement in a plane P, called the translation plane, inclined with respect to the horizontal (represented in figures 6, 8).

[0080] Each console 7 comprises a front section 700 and a rear section 701.

[0081] The front section 700 and the rear section 701 are, for example, U-shaped profiles.

[0082] Each console 7 has a front end 702 and a rear end 703. The front end 702 of each console 7 is fixed to a respective fixing and interface system 8.

[0083] More specifically, the front section 700 is articulated by the front end 702 of the respective console 7 to the corresponding fixing and interface system 8.

[0084] The front section 700 is articulated around a front axis 704 which extends here orthogonally to the translation plane P.

[0085] The front section 700 and the rear section 701 are articulated with respect to each other at an intermediate junction disposed between the front end 702 and the rear end 703.

[0086] The front section 700 and the rear section 701 are articulated about an intermediate axis 706 at the intermediate junction. The intermediate axis 706 extends here orthogonally to the translation plane P.

[0087] The rear section 701 is fixed to the underrun protection bar 6 by the rear end 703 of the respective bracket 7.

[0088] In particular, the rear section 701 is mechanically secured to a ring 708 rigidly fixed around the respective lateral section 601 on the underrun protection bar 6.

[0089] The rear section 701 is articulated around a rear axis 707 which here extends orthogonally to the translation plane P.

[0090] The consoles 7 are thus mobile between a service position (figures 1, 3, 5, 6) and a retracted position (figures 2, 4, 7, 8).

[0091] In the service position, the front section 700 and the rear section 701 form an open angle with respect to each other. More precisely, the front section 700 and the The rear section 701 are here aligned in line with each other.

[0092] In the retracted position, the front section 700 and the rear section 701 form a closed angle with respect to each other. More precisely, the front section 700 and the rear section 701 are folded onto each other, forming an acute angle with respect to each other.

[0093] When the consoles 7 move from the service position to the retracted position, the intermediate axes 706 of the two consoles 7 move laterally outwards from the vehicle 1, moving away from each other.

[0094] The anti-underrun device 5 includes actuating members 10 which drive the front sections 700 in rotation around the front axes 704 outwards.

[0095] The actuation members 10 are for example formed by two cylinders.

[0096] Each actuation member 10 is fixed to one of the brackets 7. In particular, each actuation member 10 is here, on the one hand, mechanically secured by a first end 1000 to the front section 700, for example on lugs 705, and in the immediate vicinity of the intermediate junction and one of the intermediate axes 706, and on the other hand mechanically secured and articulated by a second end 1001 opposite to the first end 1000 to the fixing and interface system 8.

[0097] The anti-underrun device 5 is thus configured to take a deployed configuration and a retracted configuration.

[0098] In the deployed configuration, the brackets 7 are in the service position and the underride guard 6 is in the lowered position. The deployed configuration is particularly suitable for road traffic since the underride guard 6 is located at an intermediate level between the overhanging portion 300 of the vehicle 1 and the ground. The underride guard 6 is thus able to prevent motor vehicles from becoming embedded under the overhanging portion 300 of the vehicle.

[0099] In the retracted configuration, the brackets 7 are in the retracted position and the underrun protection bar 6 is in the raised position. The retracted configuration is particularly suitable for use on construction sites. For example, it prevents the underrun protection bar 6 from obstructing the tipping of the skip 3.

[0100] The anti-underrun device 5 also includes a sensor 11 on one of the fixing and interface systems 8, as seen in [Fig.6] or [Fig.9].

[0101] The sensor 11 is carried by a support 1100 fixed to the fixing and interface system 8. The sensor 11 is configured to identify the position in which the consoles 7 are located. In particular, the sensor 11 is configured to identify whether the consoles 7 are in the retracted position or in the service position.

[0102] Such a sensor can make it possible to protect the underrun protection device 5 by preventing, for example, the skip 3 from being tipped backwards while the underrun protection device 5 is in the deployed configuration.

[0103] The sensor can also be used to ensure that the underride guard 6 is in the service position when the vehicle 1 is in road traffic.

[0104] Figures 9 to 12 represent in more detail one of the fastening and interface systems 8.

[0105] The interface and fixing system 8 comprises an outer plate 800, an inner plate 801 assembled with the outer plate 800, and an interface piece 812 assembled with the outer plate 800 and the inner plate 801, with the outer plate 801 interposed between the outer plate 800 and the interface piece 812.

[0106] The external plate 800 is configured to be fixed to the front end 702 of one of the respective consoles 7.

[0107] The outer plate 800, visible in isolation in figures 13, 14, includes a flange 802.

[0108] The flange 802 includes at least one light 803 extending over a predetermined length L. The flange 802 here includes six lights 803.

[0109] The 803 lights have an oblong shape.

[0110] The lights 803 allow the position of the inner plate 801 and outer plate 800 to be adjusted relative to each other, as explained later.

[0111] The flange 802 also includes rectangular openings 822 and a circular hole 823 configured for fixing the respective bracket 7 by means of at least one fixing piece (not shown).

[0112] The outer plate 800 includes a positioning element 804.

[0113] In the embodiment shown, the positioning element 804 of the external plate 800 includes a first tooth 805.

[0114] In particular, the outer plate 800 has a disc 806 projecting from the flange 802. The disc 806 forms the positioning element 804 of the outer plate 800. The disc 806 includes the first toothing 805.

[0115] The first tooth 805 here forms the perimeter of the disc 806.

[0116] The lights 803 of the outer plate 800 are located in the flange 802. The lights 803 of the outer plate 800 are located around the disc 806. The lights 803 are thus located around the first tooth 805.

[0117] The internal plate 801, visible in isolation in [Fig. 15], is configured to be fixed directly or indirectly to the carrier chassis 2 of the vehicle 1.

[0118] In the embodiment shown, the inner plate 801 is fixed to the supporting frame 2 by means of an interface piece 812.

[0119] The inner plate 801 includes at least one first fixing hole 807. The inner plate 801 here includes six first fixing holes 807.

[0120] The first fixing holes 807 of the inner plate 801 are formed so that each is opposite one of the slots 803 of the outer plate 800 when the inner plate 801 and outer plate 800 are assembled together.

[0121] The inner plate 801 includes one or more first transmission ports 808. The inner plate 801 here includes seven first transmission ports 808.

[0122] The inner plate 801 includes a complementary positioning element 809.

[0123] The complementary positioning element 809 of the internal plate 801 includes a second toothing 810 cooperating with the first toothing 805.

[0124] The first six fixing holes 807 and five of the first transmission holes 808 are provided here around the second tooth 810. Two of the first transmission holes 808 are provided at a distal end of the second tooth 810.

[0125] The complementary positioning element 809 of the inner plate 801 includes an opening 811. The opening 811 is circular. The contour of the opening 811 is formed by the second toothing 810.

[0126] The first tooth 805 is contained within the second tooth 810. In other words, the first tooth 805 is arranged inside the second tooth 810. The number of teeth in the first tooth 805 is thus less than that in the second tooth 810. The positioning element 804 of the outer plate 800 and the complementary positioning element 809 of the inner plate 801 have complementary shapes. The positioning element 804 of the outer plate 800 and the complementary positioning element 809 of the inner plate 801 can therefore cooperate.

[0127] The cooperation by complementary shape between the positioning element 804 of the external plate 800 and the complementary positioning element 809 of the internal plate 801 allows the respective console 7 to be positioned according to at least one predetermined direction among one or more predetermined directions.

[0128] Positioning element 804 and complementary positioning element 809 are thus understood to be elements which, by their complementary shape, block the rotation of the inner plate 801 and outer plate 800 relative to each other.

[0129] In other words, the positioning element 804 of the outer plate 800 and the complementary positioning element 809 of the inner plate 801 allow the corresponding bracket 7 to be oriented in one or more predetermined directions. Since the bracket 7 is fixed by its front end 702 to the outer plate 800, the positioning of the outer plate 800 relative to the inner plate 801 allows the bracket 7 to be oriented angularly. The bracket 7 thus forms an angle, called the angle of inclination, with a horizontal plane.

[0130] In the embodiment described and illustrated above, the first toothing 805 and the second toothing 810 have fine teeth or, in other words, comprise several teeth. The first set of teeth is called external teeth, while the second set of teeth is called internal teeth.

[0131] The multiplicity of teeth allows for finer positioning of the outer plate 800 relative to the inner plate 801. This therefore allows for a multitude of angular positions or orientations along predetermined directions for the brackets 7. The angular positioning of the brackets 7, i.e. to extend along a direction inclined relative to the horizontal, is thus more precise.

[0132] The number of teeth, their size and their orientation can be adapted according to the needs and in particular the number of angular positions desired for the brackets.

[0133] It should be noted that the positioning element 804 of the outer plate 800 and the complementary positioning element 809 of the inner plate 801 can more generally be of any type and have any shape as long as their complementary shape allows the rotational locking of the inner plate 801 and outer plate 800. The interface piece 812 includes a first face 813 (clearly visible in [Fig. 12]) configured to be fixed on a longitudinal member 200 of the carrier chassis 2 of the vehicle 1. The interface piece 812 also includes a second face 814 (clearly visible in [Fig. 11]), opposite the first face 813, and configured to be fixed to one of the respective inner plates 801.

[0134] In particular, the interface piece 812 includes a plurality, here six, second mounting holes 815 located each opposite one of the first mounting holes 807 of the inner plate 801.

[0135] The interface piece 812 further includes one or more through holes 816.

[0136] The interface piece 812 here includes eighteen through holes 816 clearly visible to figures 12 and 17. The eighteen through holes 816 are distributed according to three series, parallel to each other, of six through holes 816.

[0137] The interface piece 812 also includes a plurality, here seven, second transmission ports 817 each located opposite one of the first transmission ports 808 of the inner plate 801.

[0138] The interface piece 812 also includes at least one housing 818 into which the through holes 816 open.

[0139] The interface piece 812 can be formed as a single piece in which the housing 818 is formed, in particular by machining.

[0140] In the illustrated embodiment, the interface piece 812 comprises two separate plates. Here, the interface piece 812 comprises a connecting plate 819 (shown separately in [Fig. 16]) and a fixing plate 820 (shown separately in [Fig. 17]).

[0141] The connecting plate 819 and the fixing plate 820 are fixed together. The connecting plate 819 and fixing plate 820 are for example welded to each other.

[0142] The connecting plate 819 includes two windows 821.

[0143] The through holes 816 are here provided in the fixing plate 820.

[0144] The second transmission ports 817 and the second fixing ports 815 are provided in the connecting plate 819 and in the fixing plate 820 and open on either side of the first and second faces 813, 814 of the interface piece 812.

[0145] For example, the connecting plate 819 and the mounting plate 820 can be formed from laser-cut sheet metal. A counterbore is made in the connecting plate 819 to form each window 821. Drilling is carried out in the connecting plate 819 and the mounting plate 820 to form the through holes 816, the second transmission holes 817, and the second mounting holes 815.

[0146] The connecting plate 819 and the fixing plate 820 are then joined together so that the windows 821 are opposite the through holes 816. In addition, the second transmission holes 817 of the connecting plate 819 are provided opposite the second transmission holes 817 of the fixing plate 820. Similarly, the second fixing holes 815 of the connecting plate 819 are provided opposite the second fixing holes 815 of the fixing plate 820.

[0147] The arrangement of the windows 821 of the connecting plate 819 opposite the through holes 816 of the fixing plate 820 allows the housing 818 to be formed.

[0148] The production of the interface part 812 in two plates makes its manufacture and in particular its machining for the formation of the housing 818 simpler.

[0149] Furthermore, this provides greater flexibility to adapt to the different frames on which the underride guard 5 can be fixed. Indeed, the required number of fixings of the underride guard 5 to the supporting frame 2, as well as their arrangement, differ from one frame to another. Making the interface piece 812 from two plates allows only the fixing plate 820 to be adapted to the frame by modifying, for example, the arrangement and number of through holes, and the same connecting plate 819 to be used for any type of frame.

[0150] The anti-underrun device 5 further comprises assembly bolts 9 and fixing bolts 902.

[0151] The assembly bolts 9 pass through the first fixing holes 807 of the inner plate 801 and the slots 803 of the outer plate 800. The assembly bolts 9 allow the inner plate 801 and the outer plate 800 to be assembled together.

[0152] The assembly bolts 9 also pass through the second fixing holes 815 of the interface piece 812 since the inner plate 801 is fixed to the chassis by means of interface piece 812. Assembly bolts 9 allow the assembly of the inner plate 801, the outer plate 800 and the interface piece 812.

[0153] The assembly bolts 9 can be used to fasten together elements of the vehicle 1's supporting chassis 2 in addition to allowing the assembly of the outer plate 800, the inner plate 801 and possibly the interface piece 812. For example, these may be bolts allowing the assembly of a cross member 202 (visible in [Fig.5]) to the side members 200.

[0154] Two bolts among the assembly bolts 9 also serve to fix the support 1100 for the sensor 11 on the outer plate 800.

[0155] The fixing bolts 902 pass through the through holes 816 in the interface piece 812. The fixing bolts 902 allow the interface piece 812 to be fixed to the vehicle's supporting chassis 2.

[0156] The housings 818 accommodate screw heads 903 of the fixing bolts 902.

[0157] The 902 fixing bolts allow the forces to be transferred. The number of 902 fixing bolts used depends on the forces to be transferred.

[0158] The anti-underride device 5 further comprises one or more keys 901 (visible for example in [Fig. 12]). The anti-underride device 5 here comprises seven keys 901.

[0159] The keys 901 pass through the first transmission holes 808 of the inner plate 801 and second transmission holes 817 of the interface piece 812. The keys 901 come at least substantially in contact with the supporting chassis 2 of the vehicle 1.

[0160] The 901 keys are configured to resist shear forces.

[0161] The assembly of the underrun protection device 5 on the carrier chassis 2 of the vehicle 1 is carried out in the following manner.

[0162] Rods 900 of the assembly bolts 9 are passed into the interface piece 812, in particular through the second fixing holes 815.

[0163] The interface piece 812 is then fixed to the carrier frame 2 by the fixing bolts 902 passing through the through holes 816.

[0164] Prior to fixing the interface piece 812, the keys 901 can be inserted into the second transmission holes 817 of the interface piece 812. The keys 901 are arranged so as to bear against the support frame 2 once the interface piece 812 is fixed to the support frame 2.

[0165] The two of the second transmission ports 817 opposite the first two transmission ports 808 provided at the distal end of the inner plate 801 can each receive a ring (not shown). The rings prevent the keys 901 from being dislodged from said first ports. transmission 808 and second transmission ports 817.

[0166] The assembly bolts 9 are passed through the first fixing holes 807 of the inner plate 801. The first fixing holes 807 of the inner plate 801 are thus aligned with the second fixing holes 815 of the interface piece 812. The keys 901 are passed through the first transmission holes 808 of the inner plate 801. The first transmission holes 808 of the inner plate 801 are thus aligned with the second transmission holes 817 of the interface piece 812.

[0167] The outer plate 800 is positioned relative to the inner plate 801 by means of the positioning element 804 of the outer plate 800 and the complementary positioning element 809 of the inner plate 801.

[0168] The shanks 900 of the assembly bolts 9 are inserted into the slots 803 of the outer plate 800. The slots 803 of the outer plate 800 are thus opposite the first fixing holes 807 of the inner plate 801 and the second fixing holes 815 of the interface piece 812.

[0169] An angular positioning is chosen for the console 7 by positioning the positioning element 804 and the complementary positioning element 809 relative to each other, as well as by positioning each light 803 of the outer plate 800 relative to a first fixing hole of the inner plate 801.

[0170] In the present case, the positioning of the first tooth 805 of the positioning element 804 of the external plate 800 relative to the second tooth 810 of the positioning element 804 of the internal plate 801, combined with the positioning of the lights 803, allows an angular position to be chosen for the console 7.

[0171] The number of possible positions of the outer plate 800 on the inner plate 801 depends on the combination between the length of the light 803 and the cooperation of the positioning elements 804 and complementary positioning elements 809.

[0172] In the example shown, the length, number and position of the lights 803 define the number of angular positions among those permitted by the cooperation between the positioning elements 804 and the complementary positioning elements 809.

[0173] It is understood that the orientation of the teeth of the first toothed section 805 and the second toothed section 810 modifies the possible angular positions. Furthermore, the finer the teeth of the positioning elements 804 and complementary positioning elements 809—that is, the greater the number of teeth in the first toothed section 805 and the second toothed section 810—the greater the number of possible angular positions for the bracket 7. Moreover, the greater the length of each slot 803, the greater the number of selectable angular positions of the bracket 7 from those permitted by the teeth.

[0174] Once the angular position of each bracket 7 has been chosen, nuts on the assembly bolts 9 are tightened so as to fix the outer plate 800 onto the inner plate 801.

[0175] The angular position of the consoles 7 chosen depends on the type of chassis of the vehicle, and in particular on the height of the chassis.

[0176] Thus, in the embodiment shown, by the combination of choice of the first toothing 805 and second toothing 810, as well as that of the lights 803, the three predetermined angular positions or directions for each console 7 can be different depending on the type of chassis.

[0177] The external plate 800 can be modified as needed, in particular by changing the lights, in order to adapt to the type of chassis and therefore the desired angular positions.

[0178] According to one variant, it is possible to provide an external plate having very long lights so as to fit almost any type of vehicle chassis, or, on the contrary, the lights can be replaced by a plurality of individual holes.

[0179] The underride protection device according to the invention provides a ready-to-use solution since, once the inner plates are fixed to the chassis, it is simply a matter of positioning the brackets 7 at an angle, and then bolting the inner and outer plates together. Fixing the underride protection device to the supporting chassis is very simple and requires no welding or painting.

[0180] Other variants not illustrated are mentioned below.

[0181] The anti-underrun device may be without an interface piece, the internal plate then being directly fixed to the chassis.

[0182] The interface piece may have more or fewer housings.

[0183] The number of keys, fixing bolts and assembly bolts, and the corresponding holes and orifices, may differ from what is illustrated in the figures.

[0184] The first teeth can be formed on the peripheral contour of the outer plate flange.

[0185] The first dentition, called external, can be formed on the inner plate rather than on the outer plate; and the second dentition, called internal, can be formed on the outer plate rather than on the inner plate.

[0186] The positioning element and the complementary positioning element may be formed only partially by teeth. In other words, the teeth may not extend circumferentially and / or may be discontinuous.

[0187] The brackets can be welded onto the external plates rather than by fasteners engaged in openings and holes provided in these plates.

[0188] The consoles can be mobile and deployable by sliding rather than articulated by means of jacks.

[0189] The underride guard may consist of a single section, or on the contrary more than three sections.

[0190] The underrun protection device may be without a sensor.

[0191] The vehicle may be a trailer rather than a truck, or any other special vehicle, for example, a public works vehicle, or even any support under which it might be necessary to prevent entrapment.

[0192] It is more generally recalled that the invention is not limited to the examples described and represented.

Claims

Demands

1. Anti-underrun device comprising: - a transverse anti-underrun bar (6); - two longitudinal brackets (7) each having a front end (702) and a rear end (703) to which the anti-underrun bar (6) is fixed; and - two fastening and interface systems (8), each configured to be fixed on the one hand to the front end (702) of one of the respective consoles (7) and on the other hand to a chassis (2) of a vehicle (1), said underride protection device (5) being characterized in that each interface and fastening system (8) comprises an inner plate (801) configured to be fixed directly or indirectly to the chassis (2) of the vehicle (1), and an outer plate (800) assembled to the inner plate (801) and configured to be fixed to the front end (702) of one of the respective consoles (7), the outer plate (800) comprises a positioning element (804),The inner plate (801) includes a complementary positioning element (809) configured to cooperate with the positioning element (804) of the respective outer plate (800) by complementary shape, so as to position the respective bracket (7) in at least one predetermined direction among a finite number of predetermined directions.

2. Anti-underrun device according to claim 1, wherein one of the positioning element (804) of the outer plate (800) and the complementary positioning element (809) of the inner plate (801) comprises a first toothing (805), and the other of the positioning element (804) of the outer plate (800) and the complementary positioning element (809) of the inner plate (801) comprises a second toothing (810) cooperating with the first toothing (805).

3. An anti-underrun device according to claim 2, wherein one of the positioning element (804) of the outer plate (800) and the complementary positioning element (809) of the inner plate (801) is a disc (806) having the first toothed portion (805), the other of the positioning element (804) of the outer plate (800) and the complementary positioning element (809) of the inner plate (801) includes an opening (811) at least partially circular and having a contour at least partially formed by the second toothing (810).

4. Anti-underrun device according to claim 3, in which the outer plate (800) has a flange (802) from which the disc (806) protrudes.

5. An anti-underride device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the inner plate (801) comprises at least one first fixing hole (807), the outer plate (800) comprises at least one light (803) extending over a predetermined length (L), and the anti-underride device (5) further comprises at least one assembly bolt (9) passing through at least one first fixing hole (807) of the inner plate (801) and at least one light (803) of the outer plate (800) so as to fix the inner plate (801) to the outer plate (800).

6. An underride device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the inner plate (801) comprises one or more first transmission holes (808), the underride device (5) further comprising one or more keys (901) passing through the inner plate (801) by the first transmission hole(s) (808) and configured to come at least substantially in contact with the chassis (2) of the vehicle (1).

7. Underrun protection device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each fastening and interface system (8) comprises an interface piece (812) which is configured to be fixed by a first face (813) to the chassis (2) of the vehicle (1) and by a second face (814) opposite to the first face (813) to one of the respective internal plates (801).

8. Anti-underrun device according to claims 5 and 7, wherein the interface piece (812) comprises at least a second fixing hole (815) located opposite said at least a first fixing hole (807) of the inner plate (801), and at least one assembly bolt (9) further passes through at least a second fixing hole (815).

9. Anti-underrun device according to claims 6 and 7, wherein the interface piece (812) comprises one or more second transmission holes (817) located opposite the first transmission hole(s) (808) of the inner plate (801), and the key(s) (901) in addition, the interface piece (812) passes through the second transmission port(s) (817).

10. An anti-underrun device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the interface piece (812) comprises one or more through holes (816) for fixing the interface piece (812) to the chassis by means of one or more fixing bolts (902), and at least one housing (818) into which the through hole(s) (816) open and which is provided to accommodate one or more screw heads (903) forming the fixing bolt(s) (902).

11. Anti-embezzling device according to claim 10, wherein the interface piece (812) comprises a connecting plate (819) and a fixing plate (820) integral with the connecting plate (819), with the through hole(s) (816) which are provided in the fixing plate (820), and with the connecting plate (819) which includes at least one window (821) provided opposite the through hole(s) (816) and defining at least one housing (818).

12. An underride protection device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein each bracket (7) comprises a front section (700) and a rear section (701) articulated to the front section (700), the front section (700) being further articulated by the front end (702) of the respective bracket (7) to one of the respective fixing and interface systems (8), and the rear section (701) being further articulated by the rear end (703) of the respective bracket (7) to the underride protection bar (6).

13. An underride protection device according to claim 12, wherein the brackets (7) are movable between a service position in which the front (700) and rear (701) sections are aligned in line with each other, and a retracted position in which the front (700) and rear (701) sections form an acute angle with respect to each other and extend along each other, the underride protection bar (6) being movable between a lower position and an upper position relatively higher than said lower position, the underride protection device (5) being configured to take a deployed configuration in which the brackets (7) are in the service position and the underride protection bar (6) in the lower position, and a retracted configuration in which the brackets (7) are in the retracted position and the underride protection bar (6) in the upper position.

14. Anti-underrun device according to any one of the claims 1 to 13, in which anti-underrun bar (6) comprises several sections, including a central section (600) located between two lateral sections (601) and axially offset with respect to the lateral sections (601).

15. Vehicle comprising a chassis (2) said to be a load-bearing chassis having at least two longitudinal members (200), an overhanging portion (300) of the chassis (2), and an underrun protection device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, each internal plate (801) being configured to be fixed, directly or indirectly, to one of the respective longitudinal members (200) of the chassis (2) so that the underrun protection bar (6) extends under the overhanging portion (300) of the chassis (2).

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